Mr. Dunbar’s smoothly flowing narrative is so rich in picturesque illustrative anecdote that it holds the reader’s attention more closely than many novels. There are, for example, some delightful passages of comedy dealing with the adventures of Pilgrims who purchased birchbark canoes of the Indians. He also tells us of poleboats, arks, flatboats, keelboats, package boats and steam boats. Travel by rivers, oceans and canals.  And sedan chairs, carriages, horse coaches, trails, roads, and highways We realize the significant changes introduced by the railroads, and see early views of airplanes. We gain a better understanding of inhibiters and facilitators to the settlement of this expansive county.

There is a delightful chapter on early American taverns. There is the dramatic narrative of John Fitch, who revolutionized the social and business affairs of mankind by applying steam to the purposes of travel. We learn of the first locomotive, and the chapters on the Great National Road are full of life and color.

No one can read these four extraordinary volumes without the conviction that the American people are destined always to be dissatisfied with the vehicles in which they are carried, and they have always desired to travel quickly. We learn of the significant reductions in time, discomfort, and cost brought about by new travel modes and routes.  

Also includes many insights into daily life in America.

Very interesting and rewarding reading. A true surprise!

Vol 1 – Chapters 1-18

Vol 2 – Chapters 19 – 33

Vol 3 – Chapters. 34-48